Why Three Is the New Seven: Rethinking Team Size in the AI Era

In this episode…

What really makes a team a team? In a fast-moving world of AI tools, remote work, and endless meeting invites, the answer might surprise you. In this lively conversation, Ian Banner and Stephen Forbes strip team-building back to its essentials: shared purpose, trust, and the quiet power of unstructured time.

They explore why the best teams in 2025 might only need three people, how to intentionally foster connection, and why being a “51% person” can transform team culture. You’ll hear stories from the front lines of enterprise coaching and agile transformation, including practical metrics like the “six and twenty-four hour” rule for trust, and why high-functioning teams always create shared history—whether in an office or on Zoom.

This episode isn’t theory. It’s packed with field-tested insights for C-level leaders, enterprise coaches, and transformation pros who want better outcomes and more resilient teams in the era of AI and hybrid work. If you’ve ever wondered why some teams click and others stall, or how to build culture with fewer people and more impact, this one’s for you.

Takeaways

A team is defined by the strength of individual relationships.

Team size can impact the effectiveness of collaboration.

Unstructured time is essential for building connections.

The 51% principle encourages individuals to put in more effort in relationships.

Common purpose unites teams and drives performance.

Shared history enhances team cohesion and effectiveness.

Effort in relationships can lead to better team dynamics.

Smaller teams may foster stronger connections.

Unstructured interactions can lead to deeper understanding.

Intentionality in building relationships is crucial for team success.

Chapters

00:00 The Essence of Team Dynamics

03:07 The Role of Unstructured Time in Team Building

06:01 The 51% Principle: Effort in Relationships

09:11 Navigating Team Relationships and History

For links and show notes, please go to https://linktr.ee/ianbanner

Thanks for reading The Future of Work Mastery! This post is public so feel free to share it.

Thanks for reading The Future of Work Mastery! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit futureofwork.site